Hawassa City light up 'Rudwa derby'

Hawassa City returned to winning ways on Friday when they proved too strong for  neighbours Sidama, winning  2-1 in their local derby and in the Betking Ethiopia Premier League tie at the Hawassa University Stadium .

Hawassa took an early lead through Efrem Ashamo after Biruk Beyene and Wondmagegn Hailu combined to set him up.

Sidama fought back early but their best effort was a freekick by Firew Solomon in the 14th minute which was saved by Solomon Habte.

Sidama eventually equalised through Yegazu Bogale in the 33rd minute.

Biruk Beyene scored the winner for Hawassa in the 78th minute to earn his side the bragging rights in the Sidama region against their high-flying foes.

Hawassa’s win just underscores the competitive nature of the season so far and it could have gone either way.

The win moves Hawassa up to sixth position on six points and shows that perhaps the quality of their showing on opening day might yet confirm their credentials as serious contenders.

Sidama’s next game will be an away game against St George, a tough customer but they have already survived another of the top dogs, Ethiopia Coffee 

Hawassa will take on Hadiya Hossana.

© Vandyke Sports